HISTORIC PRESS RELEASE : Government welcomes science and engineering skills report by Sir Gareth Roberts [April 2002]

The press release issued by HM Treasury on 15 April 2002.

Britain must encourage more young people to study science and engineering or face a future skills shortfall, according to a new report published today.

The Roberts Report, commissioned by the Treasury, Department of Education and Skills, and the Department of Trade and Industry examines the supply of scientists and engineers in the UK.

It finds emerging shortages in the supply of high-level mathematics, physics, chemistry and engineering skills – due to increasing demand by employers for these skills and due to fewer students choosing to take these subjects at A level, and also later at university.

Sir Gareth Roberts, President of the Science Council, also identifies particular issues in schools, further and higher education, and in the attractiveness of jobs in research and development that are contributing to these shortages.

Handing over the report to the Government today, Sir Gareth said:

“The UK has a strong scientific tradition. In the past it has not always translated this into economic benefit. To do this effectively we need highly skilled scientists and engineers capable of matching the best in the world. My recommendations are designed to ensure that we achieve this. They constitute a serious challenge to all with an interest in science, engineering and innovation, especially the Government, employers and those in the education system.”

Welcoming the report on behalf of the Government, Lord Sainsbury, Minister for Science and Innovation, said:

“We are making steady progress in turning our world-class science into innovation which benefits our economy and quality of life.  It is essential that this progress is not held back by a shortage of science and engineering skills.  This means that we must attract and train more world-class scientists and engineers.  I welcome this report, which will help us to understand the challenges we and others face in ensuring a strong supply of such scientific and technical talent.”

Margaret Hodge, Minister for Lifelong Learning and Higher Education, said:

“We are committed to promoting better opportunities for young people – including the chance to develop the up to date science and engineering skills that this report shows are in demand.

We will look to build on our progress so far in tackling the challenges posed by Sir Gareth’s report but our work to improve and promote science education has been acknowledged. Standards of achievement are rising. We have introduced golden hellos and training bursaries to recruit the teachers we need. Science Year is helping to spread awareness of the opportunities available in science and engineering and we are working to widen access to higher education to make the most of the nation’s talents.”

Paul Boateng, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, added:

“The Government has done much to foster innovation and science in the UK, including increased investment in university research and tax breaks for businesses carrying out research and development. Sir Gareth’s report is important in identifying further ways of boosting the contribution science can make to improving productivity and growth. The Government will consider Sir Gareth’s recommendations in the context of the forthcoming Spending Review.”